When it comes to choosing the right dog for your family, you might think all dogs are great companions. And while it’s true that most dogs can make wonderful pets with the right training and care, some breeds may not be the best fit, especially for families with young children. That’s not to say these dogs are bad; they just may require extra attention and training. If you’re looking for a dog that will fit seamlessly into your family, here are 12 breeds you might want to think twice about.

1. Chow Chow

Chow Chows are majestic dogs with a regal air about them, but when it comes to family life, they might not be the best choice, especially for young kids. They tend to be aloof and independent, often preferring to keep their distance from strangers, including children. A Chow Chow’s strong territorial instincts mean they may not tolerate rough handling or noisy play, which can be common in families with little ones. If you’re considering a Chow Chow, remember they require a calm and patient owner who can provide structure and consistent training.

2. Akita

Akitas are powerful and protective dogs, which can make them fantastic family pets when raised with older children. However, their size and strength, combined with a strong guarding instinct, might not be ideal for families with toddlers or small kids. Akitas can also be quite independent and stubborn, meaning they need an experienced owner who can provide firm training. If you want a loving companion, an Akita could work with the right boundaries and understanding. But they’re not always the best choice if you have young, energetic children.

3. Jack Russell Terrier

The Jack Russell Terrier may be small in size, but they have a big personality and an endless supply of energy. This breed can be a bit too much for families with young kids, especially those who may unintentionally provoke them with their energetic play. Jack Russells are known for being a little possessive of their toys and space, which can lead to biting or snapping. If you’re an active family who can keep up with their energy, this breed might be a great choice, but be prepared for a bit of a challenge.

4. Doberman Pinscher

Dobermans are highly intelligent and loyal dogs, but their strong protective instincts might not always be the best fit in a home with small children. They can be wonderful family pets when raised in the right environment, but without proper training and socialization, they may become too possessive or territorial. If you’re an experienced dog owner who can commit to training and socializing your dog, they can be affectionate and protective companions. However they may not always understand how to handle the complex nature of kids.

5. Rottweiler

Rottweilers are large, powerful dogs that can make excellent family pets with proper training. However, their protective nature means they may not always be tolerant of small children, especially if they feel threatened. They require experienced owners who can provide structure and leadership. If you manage to train them firmly and with consistent discipline, Rottweilers can be great family dogs. However, they are not the best choice if you’re a first-time dog owner or have small children in your home.

6. Bullmastiff

Bullmastiffs are gentle giants known for their calm demeanor and protective instincts. While they are generally good with families, their size and strength can sometimes make them a bit too much for younger kids. They are also prone to shedding, which can be overwhelming in a home with small children. If you have older kids who can respect their boundaries and are not likely to be knocked over, a Bullmastiff could be a good fit. However, you must be prepared to manage their size and grooming needs.

7. Alaskan Malamute

Alaskan Malamutes are strong, energetic dogs that were bred for pulling sleds in cold climates. While they are affectionate with their families, they can be difficult to train and need a lot of exercise to stay happy. Malamutes can be stubborn and independent, which means they may not always follow commands, especially when surrounded by the noise and excitement of young children. If you live in a large, active home with plenty of time to devote to exercise and training, an Alaskan Malamute can thrive. Otherwise, they might be more than you can handle.

8. Greyhound

Greyhounds are often perceived as calm, quiet dogs. However, they can also have a strong prey drive and may not be the best choice for homes with small children. Their instinct to chase small animals, combined with their speed, can create dangerous situations if your child is playing outside. Additionally, Greyhounds can be sensitive to noise and sudden movements, which could make them skittish in a household full of young, active children. They’re not ideal for families with toddlers or young children who are still learning boundaries.

9. Weimaraner

Weimaraners are high-energy, intelligent dogs that require constant stimulation. While they can be affectionate and loving, they are also prone to separation anxiety, which could be challenging for families with busy schedules. Weimaraners can become destructive if they don’t get enough attention and exercise. And their high energy levels can make them difficult to manage around young children. So, if you have young kids who might not be able to meet their needs, a Weimaraner may not be a great fit.

10. Belgian Malinois

The Belgian Malinois is a highly intelligent working dog known for its energy and drive. While they can be excellent pets for active families, their high energy and need for constant stimulation make them less ideal for families with younger children. They require firm training and a lot of physical and mental exercise, which can be difficult to provide in a home with small kids. If you’re an experienced dog owner who has the time and energy to devote to a Belgian Malinois, they can make excellent companions. But they’re not suitable for families looking for a low-maintenance pet.

11. Saint Bernard

Saint Bernards are lovable giants, but their large size and gentle nature can create challenges when they’re around small children. They can unintentionally knock over toddlers and may not always understand personal space. Additionally, they shed heavily, which can be overwhelming for families with allergies or those who don’t have the time to groom them regularly. If you have older kids who can respect their space and can handle their size, a Saint Bernard might be a good fit. But they might be too much for families with small children.

12. Basenji

Basenjis are unique dogs with a quiet, independent nature. They don’t bark but communicate in other ways, and their independent streak makes them difficult to train. While they are generally good around older children, their aloofness and tendency to escape make them less than ideal for families with younger kids. Basenjis also have a high prey drive, so they may not tolerate rough handling or noisy play. If you have older, calm children and experience with independent breeds, a Basenji could work. However, you’d want to avoid a Basenji if you have young children and need a more hands-on pet.